When moving to a new home, one of the biggest challenges is moving heavy furniture and appliances – like refrigerators. With the right planning and proper help, moving a fridge can be a seamless task. It’s always recommended that you hire a residential mover for this job, but in a nutshell, here’s the process.
Part 1: Prepping the Fridge for the Move
- Empty all food and take off all magnets. Remove food from the fridge and freezer, as well as items on the outside of the appliance, such as magnets, papers, menus and the like.
- Remove the shelves. Take out all removable units from inside the fridge, such as shelving, trays and organizers. Wrap those shelves in towels or packing paper and then label.
- Unplug the refrigerator. Secure the power cord with a zip tie and ensure you have properly disconnected it from the source.
- Defrost the freezer. This process can take up to eight hours to complete, so leave enough time before your move. You should do this the night before, then wipe down the inside of the fridge come the morning. Thoroughly clean the fridge at this point as well.
- Close and secure the doors. Do this using rope or bungee cord for safety. You may want to keep the doors open a bit to encourage air flow, and prevent mold or mildew from growing.
- Get help. Moving a refrigerator takes two people. Use a dolly and ask a buddy to help, but it’s always best to let your movers take care of this.
Part 2: Moving the Fridge
- Use a dolly. Make sure it has straps and that the base is big enough to rest the fridge. Keep the fridge in an upright position at all times to avoid leaking coolant.
- Move the refrigerator. Slide the dolly underneath the fridge, then lift it slowly, securing the appliance with the straps. Don’t move the fridge onto its side or back, which can cause internal damage.
- Tilt it carefully. Once on the dolly, push the fridge slowly towards the moving truck. It’s a good idea to move opposite the tilt to maintain steady balance. Have someone guide you. Going downstairs? Move it one step at a time. Communicate and never rush.
- Load the fridge. Roll it up the ramp and secure the appliance upright in the truck. You may leave it strapped to the dolly or attach it to other furniture so it doesn’t shift.
- Move the fridge into the new digs. The refrigerator should sit for a minimum of three hours before hooking it back up so oil and fluid will have a chance to flow normally.
Contact Olde World Movers
Our team is well-versed in moving heavy appliances such as refrigerators. Don’t break your back – hire us instead! Contact us to get a free quote.
